Refining Phylogenetic Analyses: Phylogenetic Analysis of Morphological Data: Volume 2

This volume discusses the aspects of a phylogenetic analysis that go beyond basic calculation of most parsimonious trees. Practical application of all principles discussed is illustrated by reference to TNT, a freely available software package that can perform all the steps needed in a phylogenetic analysis. The first problem considered is how to summarize and compare multiple trees (including identification and handling wildcard taxa). Evaluation of the strength of support for groups, another critical component of any phylogenetic analysis, is given careful consideration. The different interpretations of measures of support are discussed and connected with alternative implementations. The book reviews rationales for estimating character reliability on the basis of homoplasy, with particular attention to morphological characters. The main methods for character weighting and their practical implementation, several of them unique to TNT, are discussed ad libitum. Also unique to TNT is the ability to directly analyze morphometric data (including landmarks), on the same footing as discrete characters. Finally, the scripting language of TNT is introduced. With scripting, it is possible to "program" TNT to create personalized routines and automate complex calculations, taking analyses to the next level and allowing exploration of new methods and ideas.